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Marriage licences and city ceremonies in Thunder Bay, Ontario
Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada
Prepare both applicants’ original identification, a completed signed application and any required divorce documents before a Thunder Bay marriage-licence appointment.

Key information
Prepare both applicants’ original identification, a completed signed application and any required divorce documents before a Thunder Bay marriage-licence appointment.
On this page
How the service works
The licence is a document used for the marriage; a civil ceremony is a separate booking. Decide whether you need the licence alone, an officiant arrangement, a city venue or some combination before paying. Ceremony availability seven days a week on request does not mean the licence counter opens seven days a week.
Complete the application with all given names matching the identification. The Clerk can review unusual identification, translation, consent or foreign-divorce circumstances before the appointment. A widowed applicant is not required by the posted city instructions to supply proof of death.
Sources: Marriage licences and city ceremonies in Thunder Bay, Ontario official information
Compare the options
| Task or circumstance | Prepare | Published amount |
|---|---|---|
| Marriage licence | Signed application and both applicants’ original ID | $164 |
| Canadian divorce | Original/court-certified Certificate of Divorce | Document acquisition cost not quoted |
| Foreign-language ID | Sworn translation and affidavit | Translation cost not quoted |
| Civil ceremony | Separate ceremony booking | $342 plusHST |
| City venue | Separate venue enquiry | Confirm with venue staff |
Sources: Marriage licences and city ceremonies in Thunder Bay, Ontario official information
Steps to use the service
- Check your circumstances
Resolve identification, divorce, translation or consent requirements.
- Book and attend
Bring both applicants’ originals and the ink-signed form.
- Arrange the ceremony
Confirm the officiant, venue and licence expiry separately.
Sources: Marriage licences and city ceremonies in Thunder Bay, Ontario official information
Eligibility and local rules
Where is the licence issued?
The Clerk’s Office is on City Hall’s first floor at 500 Donald Street East. The city recommends an appointment online or by calling 807-625-2230, extension 9.
Source: Marriage licences and city ceremonies in Thunder Bay, Ontario official information
When can an application be processed?
The published counter period is Monday to Friday,9 a.m. to 4 p.m., excluding holidays. Allow about 30 minutes and arrive by 4 p.m. with the completed package.
Source: Marriage licences and city ceremonies in Thunder Bay, Ontario official information
Must both people attend?
One applicant can attend with the completed application signed in ink by both people and the required original identification for both.
Source: Marriage licences and city ceremonies in Thunder Bay, Ontario official information
Using the service
What identification is needed?
Each person needs two original valid pieces showing name and birth date, with at least one photo ID. Names must match. The city does not accept copies, phone photos, expired ID, health cards or SIN cards.
Source: Marriage licences and city ceremonies in Thunder Bay, Ontario official information
What if identification is not in English?
The city requires a written sworn translation. It must be completed by a fluent person who is not a relative, or a translation company, with the required commissioned affidavit.
Source: Marriage licences and city ceremonies in Thunder Bay, Ontario official information
What if an applicant is 16 or 17?
The city requires parent or guardian consent for applicants under 18. Contact the Clerk before the visit to confirm the correct consent documents.
Source: Marriage licences and city ceremonies in Thunder Bay, Ontario official information
What divorce documents are needed?
For a Canadian divorce, provide an original or court-certified Certificate of Divorce. A Decree Absolute is accepted only for divorces before 1985. Foreign divorces have additional provincial document requirements.
Source: Marriage licences and city ceremonies in Thunder Bay, Ontario official information
Exceptions and help
What does the licence cost?
The posted fee is $164. Accepted payment includes cash, debit, Visa, Mastercard, money order or certified cheque. Check the current fee when booking.
Source: Marriage licences and city ceremonies in Thunder Bay, Ontario official information
Where and how long can it be used?
The licence is for a marriage in Ontario and is valid for the city’s stated three-month period. Plan the purchase around the ceremony date and check the printed expiry.
Source: Marriage licences and city ceremonies in Thunder Bay, Ontario official information
Is a city ceremony included in the licence fee?
No. The city lists a separate civil-ceremony fee of $342 plusHST, with venue arrangements separate. Cancellation within 30 days or a no-show is not refundable; one agreed date change is allowed.
Source: Marriage licences and city ceremonies in Thunder Bay, Ontario official information
Local service locations
Thunder Bay City Hall Clerk’s Office
500 Donald Street East, Thunder Bay, Ontario
Issues marriage licences on the first floor. An appointment is recommended for the document review.

- Licence enquiries
- 807-625-2230 extension 9
- Venue enquiries
- 807-625-2941
Sources: Marriage licensing
Google Maps uses the named destination and recorded address. The map is not proof of an accessible entrance, current opening or available service.
Sources: Marriage licences and city ceremonies in Thunder Bay, Ontario official information
Official contacts and forms
Sources: Marriage licences and city ceremonies in Thunder Bay, Ontario official information